To start an in-home day care in Maryland, you need to fulfill certain licensing requirements. They help ensure your home is a safe place for the children.

An in-home day care gives you the opportunity to work in the comfort of your home while caring for a small group of children. To start an in-home day care in Maryland, you need to fulfill certain licensing requirements. The requirements help ensure your home is a safe and healthy place for the children in your charge. Lastly, you choose your availability and how much you wish to charge others for child care services.

License Application

Visit your region’s Department of Education's Office of Child Care to apply for a home childcare license. There are 13 regional offices throughout the state of Maryland.

Fill out the license application. On the application, you must provide details about your home, an evacuation plan for your house, the name of all individuals who will care for the children and a signed waiver that permits routine inspection of your home. Pay any applicable fees for licensing.

Complete a criminal background check. Your Social Security number and fingerprints will be run through the Maryland Criminal Justice Information System to check for any prior convictions.

Home Inspection

Child Care Administration representatives must inspect your home to ensure you comply with all safety regulations. This includes the installation of baby gates, outlet covers, access to first-aid kits and the inability of children to access sharp or dangerous objects. A fire inspection also is required to make sure your home meets code requirements.

Approval and Recruiting

You receive a copy of your license from the Child Care Administration upon approval. Recruit children to care for in your home day care. Make sure to permit only a small group of children in your home. Maryland’s Child Care Administration does not allow home child-care providers to have more than twelve children in their care at a time. No more than two of the children can be under the age of 2.

About the Author

Heather Topham Wood is a seasoned writer whose work has appeared in numerous publications, including USA Today, Gadgetell, Feel Rich and Step in Style. Heather is a published novelist with six Amazon bestsellers and a contract through Crescent Moon Press. She holds a bachelor's degree in English from TCNJ.